Sharon Lathan ~ I am participating in the Jane Austen Soiree hosted by Maria Grazia at My Jane Austen Book Club. Visit my website where I am sharing my favorite Austen passage, as well as an excerpt from my current work-in-progress that was partially inspired by my favorite Austen passage! Plus, I am giving away a signed copy of Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy: Two Shall Become One.  Jane Austen’s Birthday – Let’s Party!  with Sharon Lathan

Regina Jeffers – Unlike Sharon, my day is a bit quieter. I am recovering from dental surgery so I am seeking a “low profile.” However, I have posted two tributes for December 16 on my blog. The first is one to my grandfather, Robert Miser. He was the man who raised me. December 16 is his birthday also. Then I have a piece on “What I Learned from Jane Austen.” For a bit of information on my next Austen-inspired release, as well as my upcoming Regency anthology, visit Darcyholic Diversions. I take a look at Austen’s use of irony.

Mary Simonsen - In 2013, we will celebrate the 200th anniversary of the publication of Pride and Prejudice. Before moving on, I have a post on Austen’s first published novel, Sense and Sensibility, on my blog.

Jane Odiwe – I am also participating in the Austen Soiree at My Jane Austen Book Club on my blog – Jane Austen Sequels Read one of my favourite passages and in celebration I am giving away a few copies of my favourite books. My latest book, Searching for Captain Wentworth is also free on Amazon in Kindle format for today only!

I painted this watercolour several years ago. It depicts the day of Jane Austen’s birth with the children all rushing to see the new baby. Outside, the snow falls across the Hampshire countryside as Mr Austen looks on proudly at his darling wife and little ‘Jenny’ as she was first called by the family. I hope you like it!

Who wants a piece of cake?

Sally Smith O’Rourke ~ In tribute to Jane I offer her eldest brother James’ poem, penned after her death in 1817:

In her, rare union, were combined a fair form, and a fairer mind;

Hers fancy quick, and clear good sense,

And wit which never gave offence;

A heart as warm as ever beat, A temper even; calm & sweet.

Though quick & keen her mental eye Poor nature’s foibles to espy,

And seemed forever on the watch,

Some trails of ridicule to catch

Yet not a word she ever penned

Which hurt the feelings of a friend.

My personal tribute, Yours Affectionately, Jane Austen is highlighted at the Book Review Club where it is a giveaway during the Christmas with Jane event.

Alyssa Goodnight – I am at Stiletto Storytime, commenting on what Jane Austen means to me and giving away a copy of AUSTENTATIOUS. Happy Birthday, Jane! You mean so much to so many!